Iran imposed a near-total internet blackout on Friday as anti-government protests intensified across the country, prompting a sharp warning from US President Donald Trump and drawing global concern over rising civilian deaths.
Authorities blocked internet access and international phone lines, cancelled flights, and deployed security forces as demonstrations raged in Tehran and several provincial cities. Rights groups say at least 62 people have been killed since protests erupted on December 28, including 48 demonstrators and 14 security personnel.
The protests began over Iran’s worsening economic crisis, marked by soaring inflation and a collapsing currency. The rial lost nearly half its value last year, while inflation crossed 40% in December. What started as economic anger has since morphed into direct political dissent, with chants targeting Iran’s top leadership.
Videos verified by Reuters showed hundreds marching through Tehran, with protesters shouting slogans such as ‘Death to Khamenei’ and others openly backing the monarchy overthrown in 1979.
Trump’s Warning Raises the Stakes
Trump, who ordered US strikes on Iran last summer, warned Tehran against using force on protesters. “You better not start shooting because we’ll start shooting too,” he said, adding he hoped demonstrators would remain safe.
However, Trump played down backing any opposition figure, saying he was not inclined to meet exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi at this stage.
In a televised address, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accused protesters of acting at the behest of the US and foreign opposition groups. Iran’s public prosecutor warned that those involved in violence or sabotage could face the death penalty.
The government said security authorities ordered the internet shutdown due to ‘prevailing circumstances.’
Also Read: Israel Seizes $1.5 Million in Crypto Wallets Linked to Iran’s IRGC
France, Britain, and Germany condemned the killing of protesters, while the United Nations said it was deeply disturbed by the loss of life. Rights groups warned the blackout was being used to hide abuses, sharply limiting information flowing out of Iran.
Despite past crackdowns, analysts say the scale and intensity of the current unrest pose the most serious internal challenge to Iran’s clerical leadership in years.